If you aren't inspired to get out and about, and all you really want to do is watch the Super Bowl at home with some chips and dip as companions, that's okay.
Is it May yet?
I can't argue that winter hasn't been especially brutal this year, but instead of sitting around feeling sorry for ourselves, let's welcome February, oh cruel February, with open arms. That's right, it's time to get out of the house and celebrate winter.
Fortunately, the confluence of Groundhog Day and Super Bowl XLII, on the eve of Mardi Gras no less, provides ample justification to check out some of the events around Madison this weekend.
The truly elegant (and well-funded) among us can grab a date, get all gussied up, and head to the Overture Center on Saturday night for the 22nd annual Frostiball. Tickets, starting at $100, will provide plenty of opportunity to mingle among the refined as you savor the hors d'oeuvres and desserts, work the dance floor, and of course sip a cocktail in the Martini Lounge.
Those with more anemic wallets can channel Molly Ringwald the night beforehand, though. DJs Mike Carlson and Amos Smith are providing the beats for an '80s Prom at the Majestic Theatre on Friday night. Cover is $5 if you get into the spirit and $10 if you show up in '08 attire.
Just up the street from the Majestic, you can enjoy a colder weekend outdoors at the Madison Winter Festival -- kids in tow, optional. A winter wonderland will descend upon the Capitol Square, combining annual cross country ski races with events for all ages, including tubing, snowshoeing, and a snow sculpture competition.
Of course, there are venues for Madison's altruists, as well. On Saturday at West High School, Souper Bowl XII will benefit , a festival honoring the Celtic godess Brigid through workshops and a potluck feast.
If you still aren't inspired to get out and about, and all you really want to do is watch the Super Bowl at home with some chips and dip as companions, that's okay. You can still connect to the outside world via the trusty interweb: Local ad firm Hiebing has launched a Super Bowl advertising blog, the
